It has been a dismal season for Real Madrid, and it could go from bad to worse on Sunday when they take on Barcelona for the final time. The Catalans will officially wrap up the La Liga title if they avoid defeat at the Spotify Camp Nou, which would be the final nail in Los Blancos’ coffin if that happens.
El Clasico is one of the most-watched sporting events on the planet, both for neutrals and punters. Sites such as https://oddspedia.com/ca/sportsbooks/stake-com/bonus are ideal for those interested in a flutter, although the likelihood is that not many people will be backing Real Madrid, given what has gone on this week.
On Thursday, Real Madrid pair Aurelien Tchouameni and Fede Valverde were involved in a furious bust-up at the club’s Valdebebas training ground, which left the latter hospitalised with a head injury. Both players will not be available to head coach Alvaro Arbeloa for El Clasico, with disciplinary action having been opened against them in the meantime.
It means that Real Madrid will be without two of their best players against Barcelona, especially in midfield. Arda Guler is already out for the season, meaning that Arbeloa only has the likes of Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga and Thiago Pitarch as options to call upon, especially if he continues his exile of Dani Ceballos.
On the other hand, Thibaut Courtois is expected to return in goals after several weeks out injured, while star striker Kylian Mbappe is also projected to receive the medical green light – although he may not be able to start at the Spotify Camp Nou.
Real Madrid’s record in El Clasico
There are reasons for optimism for Real Madrid supporters. Of the 191 La Liga matches that they have played against Barcelona, they have won 80 compared to the Catalans’ 76 (35 draws). Furthermore, they won the previous league meeting between the sides in October (2-1), so the prospect of completing a double over their arch rivals will be very appealing for those players involved.
When the big matches come around, Real Madrid are often at their best – hence their spectacular record in the Champions League. They may be depleted for the trip to Catalonia, but the players selected by Arbeloa – and the manager himself – will be desperate to seal victory, especially given that it would stop Barcelona from winning the La Liga title in El Clasico, which would be the final nail in a desperately disappointing campaign for everyone associated with the club.
